Rick’s Road Trip: Cottage Getaway Begins

Rick’s Road Trip: Cottage Getaway Begins

Rick has been on high alert. A suitcase spotted in the bedroom can only mean one thing — we’re going somewhere! The final confirmation came when his food and bowls were packed into the car. That’s when excitement levels went off the chart. Rick loves a car ride... though he does insist on barking at every lorry, car, and especially motorbike we pass.

To protect our ears, Rick travels in his own little “mobile den” — a secure travel kennel with just a front view. It works a treat and, once we’re on the move, he usually settles in nicely.

As for me, I hate this journey. Why? One word: M25. Google optimistically promised a 4-hour trip, factoring in a stop to see Kat on the way. Reality check? Over 5 hours, thanks to three collisions en route. (not us of course)

We eventually made it to Kat’s and grabbed a bite to eat. We had a catch-up and admired her new bird feeder, which is fixed to the window and offers a brilliant view of the visiting birds. Rick took the opportunity to stretch his legs and give the local area a good sniff. The highlight? Spotting a Red Kite flying low overhead — cue tail wags and skyward stares… and that was just me! Though I suspect it might be a bit too big for the feeder.

Then came part two of the journey, a shorter 90-minute drive to our final stop: a charming little cottage near Climping. We arrived in the late afternoon, tired but relieved. The place is full of character, with a weathered, paint-washed clapper board exterior that looks straight out of the 1930s.

Rick in the garden

Rick enjoying the garden

Cottage exterior

The charming cottage at Climping

Best of all, the garden is properly dog-proofed. Rick wasted no time claiming a sunny spot for lounging. Tomorrow will be his time to explore — and judging by the way his ears perked up at the sound of seagulls, I think he’s already plotting a seaside adventure. They definitely sound like they need chasing.












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